Dental Alignment Day

What Is Dental Alignment Day?

August 8th is "Dental Alignment Day" in Japan. It was established by the Nihon Rinsho Kyosei Shika Ikai (a public-interest association of clinical orthodontists in Japan) to promote proper orthodontic treatment. The date comes from reading 8 as "ha" (tooth), so two 8s side by side become "ha narabi" (tooth alignment), and from the image of laughter, "ha-ha-ha," which suits orthodontics with its focus on health.

Tooth Alignment Is About More Than Looks

The alignment of your teeth affects more than just appearance -- it also plays a role in your bite, your speech, and even your overall health.

• Purpose: to spread accurate understanding of orthodontic treatment and raise awareness of healthy dental development
• The wordplay: 8 is read as "ha" (tooth), and a row of 8s becomes "ha narabi" (tooth alignment), an easy combination to remember
• A second origin: the day also carries the image of laughter, "ha-ha-ha"
• Connection to smiling: well-aligned teeth support a natural smile, which in turn affects confidence in communication

What Age Can Orthodontic Treatment Start?

Poor tooth alignment or bite is called "malocclusion," and it includes types such as protruding upper teeth, an underbite and crowded teeth. Orthodontic treatment is carried out across a wide range of ages, from children still growing to adults. In recent years, less noticeable orthodontic devices have become more common, and many people now start treatment as adults.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Take a moment in front of a mirror to think about your own or your family's dental alignment
• If something's been bothering you, consider consulting a dentist
• Look back at dental checkup records to track a child's dental development
• Review your brushing habits to help maintain healthy alignment

Well-Aligned Teeth Are the First Step to a Confident Smile

Dental alignment, something we rarely think about day to day, is actually a foundation for both health and a confident smile. Why not make August 8th a day to take a closer look at your own?